The Polaris Music Prize is a music award given each year to the best full-length Canadianalbum. It is for artistic merit, regardless of genre, sales, or record label.[1] The award was formed in 2006 with a $20,000 cash prize.[2] the prize was increased to $30,000 for the 2011 award.[3]

This list of nominees is released in early July. A group of 11 jury members ("The Grand Jury") meet in Toronto at the Polaris Music Prize gala in late September. The winner is picked after the nominated bands perform.[2]